Wireless Security Cameras
Wireless Security Cameras & Common Misconceptions
Overview
Surveillance cameras and facial recognition are used to monitor public and private spaces and to identify people. The effectiveness of this technology is up for debate, but it is nevertheless becoming both more pervasive and more invasive.
Surveillance cameras (also known as Closed-Circuit Television or CCTV) are increasingly being used to monitor public and private spaces throughout the world. Governments and law enforcement authorities have used video surveillance in various circumstances ranging from the investigation of crimes, the protection of urban environments and government buildings, traffic control, the monitoring of demonstrators and in the context of criminal investigations.
Proponents contend that video surveillance is both a deterrent to criminals and an aid to solving crime. Camera systems are usually rolled out with little prior research into the effectiveness or appropriateness of the technology, in many cases simple because the impression of heightened security is good PR for local government. Studies of the efficacy of CCTV in preventing crime have been inconclusive at best.
Facial recognition systems use computerized pattern-matching technology to automatically identify peoples’ faces. While still very much in its infancy, it raises significant public policy questions because it enables the covert identification and classification of people in public.
Wireless Cameras
As security camera technologies continue to evolve, there are new solutions for those who previously were not able to utilize hardwired systems. Wireless security cameras are very advantageous for those that need to go without wires for easier placement. One reason customers choose wireless IP security cameras over other types of technology is due to the camera system’s flexibility. Before delving into more about wireless technology, it’s important to refute some of the common misconceptions that people have about these types of surveillance systems:
Battery Operated Wireless Security Cameras
Wireless cameras still need power source to function. The belief that wirelesses security cameras are battery-operated is a common misconception: No real security cameras use battery power. The only battery-operated cameras that are available on the market are not suitable for protecting your home or business and can’t be integrated into an existing video surveillance system. Listed below are two primary modes of powering wireless cameras:
Power With Plug-in Wall Adaptor
You can choose to power your wireless camera with a wall plug adaptor but be forewarned: it’s not secure and it isn’t a good look for the home or office. The black and cumbersome power cords that plug into the wall are not a pretty sight and can be potentially dangerous to children or adults who can trip on them.
PoE Technology
Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) technology is often the best choice for powering your camera system, removing the need for wireless. First and foremost, it’s secure and doesn’t require the additional cabling needed to plug the camera into a wall plug adaptor. Moreover, PoE extenders can provide an effective distance of up to 900 feet, enabling you to place cameras in far-away location without losing connection.
